Apparel and Uniforms > Body Armor

When dealing with violent and unpredictable criminals, body armor can be a lifesaver. With ambush-style attackers on officers regularly making the news, law enforcement personnel need reliable protection. Our selection of body armor includes models from trusted law enforcement and tactical equipment makers like GH Armor Systems and Armor Express.

Body armor is usually rated for impact resistance using the National Institute of Justice's system of threat levels. Level IIA armor is the lowest typically used by law enforcement officers. It provides protection against low and medium-velocity 9mm and .357 magnum. While the low profile of Level IIA vests makes them easy to conceal, advances in soft armor fibers have seen police departments increasingly adopt Level II and Level IIIA vests for concealable protection. Level IIIA is the highest rating available from soft armor, and Level IIIA vests can be worn overtly or covertly. It protects against threats up to and including .44 magnum ammunition travelling at 1450 feet per second. As well as armor vests, soft trauma plates are also available, and can be used with a plate carrier vest or added to existing body armor to increase its threat level.

Level III and Level IV protection is usually only available from hard plates. These are typically made from ceramics or advanced composite materials, and designed to be worn in the pocket of a plate carrier or a soft armor vest. Because of their size and bulk, they are typically only suitable for overt wear. However, the extra weight pays dividends in terms of protection. Level III and IV plates are built to stop rifle bullets, with Level IV armor being capable of defeating even armor-piercing ammunition.

When shopping for body armor online at CopsPlus, don't forget that every pair is backed by our low price guarantee. Don't forget to also view our selection of plate carriers.